The United States, in the passing of former President George H.W. Bush, has lost a fine, decent man, a super-patriot and a shining example of how to live a good life to all of us.

I think it may be instructive to compare President Bush’s life and legacy to that of the current occupant of the White House, Donald J. Trump. In World War II, President Bush enlisted at age 18 and became the youngest naval aviator at that time. President Trump made every effort to avoid being drafted and never served in the military (and to this day as president has never even visited the troops in a war zone). President Bush, although a successful businessman, served his country in many roles during a very long, storied career of public service. President Trump, until he became president at age 70, never served anyone’s interest other than his own and his sole mission was to accumulate wealth, not serving the public good. President Bush had one enduring romantic relationship in his entire life, being married to his beloved Barbara for 73 years. President Trump has, so far, had three wives and perhaps scores of ‘romantic’ dalliances, none of which have lasted more than 15 years.

Perhaps more importantly, President Bush was a man of unquestionable character, morals and ethics and led a scandal-free life and presidential administration. President Trump’s business life and his 22 months in office has been plagued by scandal, moral and ethical challenges throughout. Our country and the world is a better place for George H.W. Bush having lived. Will we say the same thing about Donald Trump?